Chapter 31
Weapons of Ill Omen
Original
夫佳兵者，不祥之器，物或恶之，故有道者不处。
君子居则贵左，用兵则贵右。兵者不祥之器，非君子之器，不得已而用之，恬淡为上。胜而不美，而美之者，是乐杀人。夫乐杀人者，则不可以得志于天下矣。
吉事尚左，凶事尚右。偏将军居左，上将军居右，言以丧礼处之。杀人之众，以哀悲泣之，战胜以丧礼处之。
君子居则贵左，用兵则贵右。兵者不祥之器，非君子之器，不得已而用之，恬淡为上。胜而不美，而美之者，是乐杀人。夫乐杀人者，则不可以得志于天下矣。
吉事尚左，凶事尚右。偏将军居左，上将军居右，言以丧礼处之。杀人之众，以哀悲泣之，战胜以丧礼处之。
Translation
Fine weapons are instruments of ill omen. They are hated by all creatures. Therefore, those who follow the Way do not rely on them. The noble person, in times of peace, honors the left; in times of war, honors the right. Weapons are instruments of ill omen, not the tools of a noble person. They are used only when unavoidable, with calm detachment. Even in victory, there is no beauty. To find beauty in victory is to delight in killing. Those who delight in killing cannot achieve their purpose in the world. Auspicious events honor the left; inauspicious events honor the right. The lesser general stands on the left; the greater general stands on the right. This is to say, they conduct war as if conducting a funeral. When many are killed, they mourn with deep sorrow. Victory is celebrated with the rites of mourning.
Deep Reflection
What is this chapter about?
This chapter warns against glorifying war and violence, emphasizing that even necessary conflict should be approached with sorrow and restraint, not pride.
How does it relate to me?
It reminds me to avoid celebrating conflict in my own life—whether arguments, competitions, or power struggles—and to approach disagreements with humility and regret for any harm caused.
What should I do today?
Today, if I feel tempted to 'win' an argument or prove someone wrong, I will pause and choose a peaceful resolution instead, acknowledging the cost of conflict.
Related Chapters
My Reflection
What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?